Cost for adjusting valves ?
 

So what would be a reasonable rate for adjusting the valves on my '93 Civic DX 1.5 L ?
Yes - I know I could ( and should ) be able to easily do it myself, but I have a way of f'ing things up.

Hi,

How are they adjusted? Shim under bucket, or a bolt adjuster?

If I take my time I can spend 15 minutes adjusting the valves, you need a cold engine so you need to let it sit for 4-6 hours first.
Honda uses threaded adjuster on their rocker arms, I've never had any of my 5 civics go out of adjustment but it's good to check every few years anyway.
Figure the cost is going to be whatever the shop minimum charge is $35 or something.

It should be from 1/2 hour to 1 hour of "shop time", plus the cost of gaskets and possibly something for "shop supplies" (e.g., the sealant used on the corners of the gasket). I don't know what labor rates are in your area. The gasket set probably retails for around $25; expect to pay full retail for that.

Crunch the numbers and figure it out. Or call around to your local shops. Generally an independent mechanic will be less expensive than the dealer. They may not have specialized knowledge or tools for a particular application, but valve adjustment is something any reasonable mechanic should be able to do.

-soD